Detective Work
When a person diagnosed with autism is having a problem at home, school, or work or in the grocery store, park, or car, it can often be very challenging to discover the source of the problem. Many times, teachers, job coaches, therapists, family members, and friends must be “super-sleuths” in order to patiently explore all potential causes.
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SOME THOUGHTS Jack, a teenager with autism, doesn’t follow directions. WHY? Is he unwilling to cooperate? Or is he unable to comply? Reasons why he doesn’t follow directions could fall in any combination of the following:
Comprehension
Does he understand the words you are speaking? Does he understand the meaning of the words you are speaking?
Has he learned different labels e.g. “restroom” “bathroom” “go tee-tee.”
Are you using too many words? Maybe he just focused on the end of the phrase: “…..so we can go to lunch.”
Focus / Attention
Is he paying attention?
Does he remember the direction long enough to formulate a response?
Does he know you are talking to him?
Language Processing
Does he have a hearing loss? Are other noises in the room interfering with his ability to hear what you are saying?
Is he able to decode the words?
Does he recognize that a response is necessary?
Does he realize the direction is addressed to him and not another student?
Does he know that you “really mean it” this time?
Does he know what response you want?
Formulating a Response
Does he know what to do?
Does he have motor-planning skills necessary to initiate a response?
Can he translate the desired response into action?
Motivation
Does he know the consequences of incompliance?
Does he care about the consequences of incompliance?
Is he lethargic, depressed, distracted, or just content with the status quo?
This is just one example of the complexity of potential causes for problems. But, I encourage you to patiently wade through all possibilities in an effort find out the cause so you can develop a strategy that facilitates permanent change rather than putting a band-aid on the problem.
NOTE TO LISTENERS AND READERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. You can click on a button to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solutions. Check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. www.FAQautism.com
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